The Army Computer Hardware, Enterprise Software and Solutions (CHESS) office issued Phase 2 solicitation materials for the Information Technology Enterprise Solutions-4 Servers (ITES-4S) GWAC in March 2026. ITES-4S carries a $14.3 billion ceiling over ten years and is a 100% small-business set-aside, making it one of the most significant IT contracting opportunities available exclusively to small firms. Details are posted at SAM.gov under solicitation W52P1J-24-R-0001.

What ITES-4S covers

ITES-4S is a multiple-award indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) vehicle covering IT products and services for Army and other DoD components. Key scope includes:

  • Commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) hardware: servers, storage, networking equipment
  • IT services: integration, configuration, sustainment, and lifecycle management
  • Cloud solutions: hybrid cloud, infrastructure-as-a-service
  • Cybersecurity services aligned to CMMC Level 2 and Level 3 requirements

Proposal requirements and competitive dynamics

Phase 2 requires full technical and price proposals. Key factors per the solicitation:

  • Technical approach: Most heavily weighted — evaluators want demonstrated delivery methodology, not just staff resumes
  • Past performance: Three relevant contracts required; Army IT experience preferred but not mandatory
  • Price: Evaluated for reasonableness and balance across the CLINs
  • No teaming restrictions — large-business teaming partners are allowed as subcontractors

What to do before the May deadline

  • Download the full RFP from SAM.gov; watch for amendments in April that may adjust scope or CLINs
  • Register under NAICS 541512 (Computer Systems Design Services) if not already — this is the primary NAICS for the vehicle
  • Confirm your small-business size status in SAM.gov is current before proposal submission
  • Identify at least three past performance references with relevance to Army or DoD IT infrastructure

Sources